AAA Carpet and Upholstery recommends regular leather maintenance once every three months. Due to changes recently implemented by the Leather Manufacturing Industry, tanning processes and the chemicals used in these processes have been dramatically changed. This change came about because of environmental concerns and cost factors. As a result, maintenance products have to be adapted in order to remain compatible and beneficial with the newer styles of leather.
Read more: How Often Does Leather Need to be Cleaned, Softened and Protected?
There are various types of leather used in upholstery, rug borders, clothing, airplane and car seats and other items. The most common is Protected/Pigmented/Top Grained, or Top Coated Leather. This is the most durable and easiest to care for. It has a very thin coating over the surface, which seals the leather and prevents water or liquids from soaking into the leather. If a small droplet of water is placed onto the surface of the leather, it will immediately "bead up". This method will quickly identify Top Grained Leather.
Read more: How Can I Determine What Type of Leather I Purchased?
In order to restore leather to its original color, a color swatch is needed for color matching and color creation. Depending on the age of your item – leather furniture, leather jacket, leather bag, car/airplane seat, etc, it is best to supply us with a small sample of the material. A one inch piece is sufficient, but the larger the better!
Read more: If Leather Items Need Color Restored, How are Color Matches Created?
Several factors affect leather - water, oils, alcohol, body oils, UV light and everyday soiling. Protecting the finish of leather will provide a protective "shield" over the surface of your leather to prevent the effects of this exposure. This protection should be applied when your leather is first purchased, followed by re-application with regular, routine maintenance.
Color codes do not help us a great deal in most cases. Various factors affect color – age, exposure, use, dye lots, etc. In addition, furniture manufacturers’ use varying colors in the dying process of their leather and each hide reacts differently.
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